Training and Data Quality in the Northeast

Providing training and data quality services to promote excellence in fishery-dependent data collection.

New England/Mid-Atlantic

Fishing boats at dock. — Credit: Unknown

We train, certify, and retain high performing observers and ensure that all collected data meet the high standards necessary for effective management of Northeast and Mid-Atlantic fishery resources. “Observer” may refer to any observer, monitor, shore-side sampler, or electronic monitoring reviewer.

Training

For Observers

We have a thorough training and certification process. It is supported by an effective curriculum and a number of standards and policies. The process is designed to inform observer candidates of expectations and promote success in fishery-dependent data collection in the field.

If you want to become an observer, contact one of our approved providers.

Our training is focused on regional fisheries needs. Some of the topics covered include:

Safety procedures and protocols
Conflict resolution
Fish species identification
Seabird species identification
Protected species identification
Biological sampling
Fishing operations and gear
Data collection
Submission requirements

Catch Estimation Methods, Ranked by time and space: Actual Weights, Tally/Basket/Tote Counts, Count to Count, Weight to Weight, Volume to Volume, Visual Estimates

Observer Catch Estimation Tools Fact Sheet (pdf, 2pg)

Training doesn’t end in the classroom.

Upon successful completion of the training course, each candidate must also first demonstrate their ability to meet program standards in the field, before becoming certified and eligible for deployment.

Observers candidates weighing fish on deck.(left) Observer candidates measuring catch on deck.(right) — Observer candidates receiving instruction on proper sampling techniques during the at-sea portion of training. Credit: NOAA Fisheries

For Groundfish Sector Monitors

We manage the At-Sea Monitoring Program required by the Northeast Multispecies Fishery Management Plan. These monitors collect a variety of data during commercial fishing trips. The data are needed for management and monitoring of the annual catch limits and groundfish sectors.

We conduct some components of ASM training, and others are provided by the Coonamessett Farm Foundation under the direction of the Northeast Fisheries Observer Program.

If you are interested in becoming a monitor, contact one of our ASM providers.

Electronic Monitoring

Electronic monitoring uses video technology to record bycatch and verify catch. Electronic monitoring data supplement observer data.

We support these efforts by providing secondary review of electronic monitoring data, developing and implementing data quality standards, and by training video reviewers for third-party electronic monitoring providers.

Learn more about Electronic Monitoring (National)

Our EM Providers

Safety

Observer safety is critical to effective deployment of observers on commercial fishing vessels. Safety training and continual refreshers ensure that our observers have the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to recognize potentially dangerous situations while deployed. It also ensures they can take steps to protect the health and well-being of themselves and those around them.

Preventing Harassment (pdf, 1pg)

Observer candidates in gumby suits (imersion suits) exiting vessel. (left) Observer candidates working with Coast Guard learning at sea safety skills. (right) — Observer candidates wearing immersion suits while practicing at-sea safety skills (i.e., safely boarding a life raft and chain swimming). Credit: NOAA Fisheries

Data Quality

The Data Processing Team ensures that all data collected by observers meet the high standards required to inform fishery management decisions. This requires a rigorous quality assurance/quality control process involving a number of key components.

Data Processing and Review

Data are evaluated trip-by-trip. This review by both trained staff and automated systems ensures that all errors are identified and corrected.
Data debriefers serve as mentors and perform initial data checks. They work closely with observers to reinforce strong sampling habits and to ensure that all trip events are properly documented.
Data are validated against computer audits to ensure consistent quality among all observers and all trips.
Preliminary and final data are prioritized by program and made available to users in a timely manner.
As program requirements evolve or new situations are encountered, they are discussed and documented for future reference.
Other data quality staff ensure that all trip data are properly assigned, accurately entered into our database, and archived for future reference.

Species Verification

Proper species identification is a crucial component of all observer programs. Candidates are expected to be familiar with the common Atlantic species found off the Northeast U.S. and have training and experience in fish identification.

Learn more about this program

Training in species identification, Candidates and fish on tables.(left) Outdoor class in species identification, fish species laid out on table. (right) — Observer candidates receiving instruction on species identification. Credit: NOAA Fisheries

Incidental Takes

Incidental takes occur when marine mammals, sea turtles, and seabirds come in contact with a fishing vessel or its gear. Observers are required to document these events if they happen during a fishing trip.

Documentation of incidental takes can include collecting images, taking measurements, and collecting biological samples, depending on the trip type.

When feasible, whole animals are brought in for additional data collection or training purposes. Most often, whole samples are necropsied in collaboration with others within the center, such as the Protected Species Branch.

Observers also provide detailed accounts of how the animal was entangled and the damage caused by gear. This information is extremely valuable for ongoing research creating future gear modifications, understanding protected species interactions with vessels, and learning about specific species behavior and life history.

Learn more about this program